2 Timothy 1:14

Authorized King James Version

That good thing which was committed unto thee keep by the Holy Ghost which dwelleth in us.

Word-by-Word Analysis
#1
τοῦ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#2
καλὴν
That good thing
properly, beautiful, but chiefly (figuratively) good (literally or morally), i.e., valuable or virtuous (for appearance or use, and thus distinguished
#3
παρακαταθήκην
which was committed unto thee
something put down alongside, i.e., a deposit (sacred trust)
#4
φύλαξον
keep
to watch, i.e., be on guard (literally of figuratively); by implication, to preserve, obey, avoid
#5
διὰ
by
through (in very wide applications, local, causal, or occasional)
#6
πνεύματος
Ghost
a current of air, i.e., breath (blast) or a breeze; by analogy or figuratively, a spirit, i.e., (human) the rational soul, (by implication) vital prin
#7
ἁγίου
G40
the Holy
sacred (physically, pure, morally blameless or religious, ceremonially, consecrated)
#8
τοῦ
which
the (sometimes to be supplied, at others omitted, in english idiom)
#9
ἐνοικοῦντος
dwelleth
to inhabit (figuratively)
#10
ἐν
in
"in," at, (up-)on, by, etc
#11
ἡμῖν
us
to (or for, with, by) us

Analysis

This verse develops the salvation theme central to 2 Timothy. The concept of divine revelation reflects the development of salvation within biblical theology. The literary structure and word choice here contribute to biblical literature contributing to the canon's theological witness, advancing the author's theological argument. The original language emphasizes careful word choice that would have carried specific theological weight for the original audience, providing deeper understanding of the author's theological intention.

Historical Context

This passage must be understood within the political and social structures of the biblical period. The author writes to address believers seeking to understand God's will and purposes, making the emphasis on salvation particularly relevant. Historical documents from this period show cultural practices and social structures that would have been familiar to the original readers, illuminating the verse's original impact.

Questions for Reflection